Sandro Tonali involved in gambling scandal, might face penalties

According to James Horncastle of The Athletic, Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United and Nicolo Zaniolo from Aston Villa, who are Italian national players, were examined by the police in Italy's Coverciano training center due to their alleged association with illegal online gambling websites on Thursday.

The FICG stated that two players are allowed to take a break from playing for the national team of Italy. This is happening while the team prepares for matches connected to the EURO 2024 Qualifiers.

FICG has reported that the Turin Public Prosecutor's Office has recently launched an investigation into Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Zaniolo. Both players are currently undergoing training at the Coverciano Federal Training Centre while the investigation is underway.

The FICG made a decision to permit both players to go back to their clubs due to the current circumstances. They mentioned that the two players were not in the required state to play the upcoming games in the coming days, irrespective of what happened. The Federation made this choice to safeguard the players' wellbeing.

Horncastle's investigation revealed that the FIGC's sporting justice code, specifically Article 24, prohibits individuals from making or accepting wagers on events sanctioned by the FIGC, FIFA, and UEFA. This type of behavior could result in a breach of the code and lead to severe penalties for those found to be guilty, including a fine of at least €25,000 and being banned from participation in the sport for up to three years. Tonali may face these consequences if it is determined that he failed to adhere to the regulations.

Earlier this year, there was a story about Brentford's Ivan Toney. He got into trouble for breaking the FA betting rules. As a result, he cannot play until Jan. 16, 2024. He also has to pay a fine of €58,000 to the FA.

During this summer's transfer window, Toney was a target for Arsenal and Chelsea. He appeared to be eager to leave Brentford and start afresh elsewhere. However, reports emerged that he decided to stay with AFC, and is now looking forward to getting back on the pitch with the team in January.

It is not certain what repercussions Tonali's potential ban could have on his status at Newcastle. However, it would most certainly not be satisfactory for the club's recent owners, who invested an enormous €70m in securing the acquisition of the ex-AC Milan midfielder.